Managing Post-Op Pain at Home: Non-Medication Relief

Medications are not the only way to manage pain after surgery. Try the following techniques.

Ice or Heat

Use the one checked below as needed (but for no longer than 20 minutes at a time):

• Ice pack or bag of frozen peas wrapped in a thin cloth

• Covered heating pad (not too hot)

Visualization

Visualization helps take your mind off the pain:

• Close your eyes. Breathe deeply.

• Picture yourself in a quiet, peaceful place.

• Imagine how you feel in that place.

• If other thoughts enter your mind, take a deep breath and try again.

Progressive Body Relaxation

Relaxation helps relieve stress and pain:

• Close your eyes. Clench your foot muscles.

• Hold for a few seconds. Release.

• Repeat with the muscles in your calves.

• Work slowly up your body.

Deep Breathing

Deep breathing relaxes your whole body:

• Inhale slowly and deeply as you count to 5.

• Hold your breath for a couple of seconds.

• Exhale through your mouth as you count to 10.